The Ultimate Baked Salmon with Honey Mustard

Think cooking salmon is tricky? You’re not alone—65% of home cooks feel the same. Our Baked Salmon with Honey Mustard changes that. This no-fail recipe delivers tender, perfectly cooked salmon with a sweet and tangy glaze—ready in under 30 minutes. It’s the kind of dish that looks impressive, tastes incredible, and proves that gourmet flavor doesn’t require expert skills.

Ingredients List

For the perfect baked salmon with honey mustard, gather these carefully selected ingredients:

For the Salmon:

• 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Honey Mustard Glaze:

• ¼ cup Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Zest of 1 lemon

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges
• Toasted sesame seeds

Pro tip: Choose wild-caught salmon when possible for enhanced flavor and nutritional benefits. If unavailable, high-quality farm-raised salmon works wonderfully, too.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels – this crucial step ensures a perfect sear and helps the honey mustard glaze adhere beautifully. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Allow the fish to rest at room temperature for 10 minutes, which promotes even cooking and helps develop a more tender texture.

Step 2: Create the Honey Mustard Glaze

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, thyme leaves, and lemon zest. The combination creates a complex flavor profile that elevates the salmon from simple to spectacular. The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the honey.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly greased aluminum foil. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. The high temperature ensures perfectly cooked salmon with a beautifully caramelized exterior.

Step 4: Glaze and Bake

Brush the salmon fillets generously with olive oil, then coat them with the honey mustard glaze. Reserve some glaze for serving. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching. Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum moisture. Garnish with fresh parsley, toasted sesame seeds, and additional honey mustard glaze. Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of brightness.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional profile of your baked salmon with honey mustard:

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Protein: 34g
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 10g
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 2.5g

This dish provides approximately 68% of daily protein requirements and is rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.

Healthier Alternatives

Adapt this baked salmon with honey mustard to suit various dietary needs:

• Low-Sugar Option: Replace honey with monk fruit sweetener
• Dairy-Free: Ensure all ingredients are dairy-free
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free Dijon mustard
• Keto-Friendly: Reduce honey, increase herbs and spices

Serving Suggestions

Complement your baked salmon with honey mustard:

• Roasted asparagus
• Quinoa pilaf
• Mixed green salad
• Cauliflower rice
• Steamed broccoli

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking salmon (leads to dry, tough texture)
2. Not patting salmon dry before cooking
3. Skipping the resting period
4. Using cold salmon directly from the refrigerator
5. Overcrowding the baking sheet

Storing Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container
• Consume within 2 days
• Reheat gently at 50% power to prevent overcooking
• Best enjoyed fresh

Conclusion

Our baked salmon with honey mustard transforms a potentially intimidating protein into an accessible, delicious meal. With minimal ingredients and simple techniques, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that’s both nutritious and incredibly flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon? Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard? Use whole grain mustard or yellow mustard as alternatives.

How do I know when salmon is fully cooked? Internal temperature of 145°F or flakes easily with a fork.